Jaguar Health's Joint Venture Imports Coca Leaf for Mental Health Research

Magdalena Biosciences, a joint venture between Jaguar Health and Filament Health, has imported six kilograms of coca leaf from Peru, with aspirations to explore its potential in treating ADHD and other neuropsychiatric conditions. The import, authorized by Peru's Dirección General de Medicamentos Insumos y Drogas, marks the second such collaboration, highlighting the therapeutic potential of coca-based botanical drugs.

The coca leaf import was supported by ENACO, Peru's official coca distributor. Dr. Steven King from Jaguar expressed optimism about the benefits these botanical drugs could offer, emphasizing the cultural significance of coca in Peru. The research aims to develop FDA-approved, plant-based drugs for mental health issues such as schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression.

Magdalena's stakeholders commend the regulatory accomplishment and stress the importance of botanicals as safer alternatives to conventional drugs. Dr. King is set to discuss these developments at the 2025 Wisdom of the Leaf Coca Summit in Peru, underscoring the project’s promise.